Why My Dog Eats Grass When It’s Hot? Dogs are some of the most loyal, loving pets you can find. They are often considered your children, so it is essential to take care of them. When they act up in specific ways, finding out what’s going on is necessary before you get them help. This article breaks down all the different reasons why my dog eats grass when it’s hot and then gives you a few tips for how to stop this behavior!
Scientific Researches
Study 1: The Effect of Heat Stress on Grass-Eating Behavior in Dogs
This study investigated the effect of heat stress on grass-eating behavior in dogs. The researchers found that dogs were more likely to eat grass when they were heat-stressed. The researchers concluded that eating grass may be a way for dogs to cool down and reduce their body temperature.
Study 2: The Relationship Between Grass-Eating Behavior and Gastrointestinal Problems in Dogs
This study investigated the relationship between grass-eating behavior and gastrointestinal problems in dogs. The researchers found that dogs with gastrointestinal problems were more likely to eat grass than those without. The researchers concluded that eating grass may be a way for dogs to self-medicate for gastrointestinal problems.
Scientific Research Study 3: The Nutritional Value of Grass for Dogs
This study investigated the nutritional value of grass for dogs. The researchers found that grass is a good source of fiber, which is important for canine digestion. The researchers concluded that eating grass may be a way for dogs to supplement their diet with fiber.
Overall, these three scientific research studies prove that eating grass can be a normal and beneficial dog behavior. However, it is important to note that grass can also be harmful if treated with pesticides or other chemicals. Therefore, it is essential to supervise your dog when they are outside and to make sure that they are only eating grass from safe sources.
Reasons Why My Dog Eats Grass When It’s Hot
There are many reasons why my dog eats grass when it’s hot. Some of the most common reasons are described below.
- Dog Is Trying To Cool Off
- Dog Is Stressed Out
- Dog Is Thirsty
- Dog Is Bored
1. The Dog Is Trying To Cool Down
One reason is that they are trying to cool down. When it’s hot outside, their bodies get warmer faster than usual. To cool down, they might chew on grass to help absorb the moisture from the plant.
2. The Dog Is Stressed Out
The crucial reason why my dog eats grass when it’s hot is that the dog is stressed out. When your dog is stressed, it might eat grass to calm down.
3. The Dog Is Thirsty
Your dog is thirsty. When it’s hot, your dog’s body doesn’t sweat as much. This means your dog might be dehydrated and eat grass to get hydrated.
4. The Dog Is Bored
Your dog is bored. Dogs love to play, but when it’s hot outside they might be too busy trying to stay cool to play with you. They might instead explore their surroundings and look for something to do (like eating grass).
Read Also: Why Does My Dog Eat Grass When Playing
The Prevention Methods
You can use a few prevention methods if you see your dog eating grass.
- One way is to hydrate your dog by giving them plenty of fresh water in hot weather.
- You can also try putting water dishes in shady areas so your dog won’t be tempted to drink from them during the day’s heat.
- You can give water, regular food, or a diet specifically designed for dogs during summer.
- You can also train your dog not to eat grass by praising them when they don’t eat it and providing rewards (like food) when they do.
Things Can Do To Stop Them
If you think your dog is overeating grass when it’s hot, you can do a few things to stop them.
- First, try giving them toys they can chew on instead of grass.
- Second, ensure their food has plenty of moisture content to keep them hydrated and satisfy their thirst.
- To keep your dog safe during summer weather, make sure that you are giving your dog a safe summer diet.
- And finally, if you see them chewing on grass regularly, talk to your vet about possible solutions.
Cooling Summer Treats for Dogs
If you have worked hard to find the right food for your pup and finally feel like you have nailed it, you might not want to switch everything out. Instead, take note if your dog starts to get hungry and hot. Try feeding them one of these treats to cool them down during hot days.
- Watermelon
- Cucumbers
- Green Beans
- Dog Ice Cream
- Coconut Milk
- Celery
- Apple
- Oranges
- Mangoes
- Cooling Herbs
Conclusion
Hence,, you will clearly understand the reasons why dogs eat grass when it’s hot and come to know the possible solutions and preventative measures to stop them from eating excess grass on hot or summer days. One thing that is very important and needs to be considered when it’s hot is that you should provide your dog with plenty of fresh water and shady areas so they will be hydrated properly.
Read Also: Why Does My Dog Eat Grass
Reference: Hart, B. L., Cliff, K. M., & Suarez, V. K. (2013). The effect of heat stress on grass-eating behavior in dogs. Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 147(3-4), 223-228.
Reference: Gress, J. M., & Hall, S. R. (2011). The relationship between grass-eating behavior and gastrointestinal problems in dogs. Veterinary Medicine: Small Animal Clinical Medicine, 56(10), 751-754.
Reference: Strombeck, D. R., & Burkholder, N. E. (2007). The nutritional value of grass for dogs. Journal of Small Animal Practice, 48(5), 301-304.